Artificial lung assists (ALA) are used to support patients with lung failure. They work by passing patient’s blood over an artificial membrane which removes carbon dioxide and delivers oxygen to the blood. While current technology is highly advanced, a clinical need still exists for more efficient operation. As part of DFG - Priority Programme “Towards an Implantable Lung”, this thesis aims towards developing a system that can aid at maintaining the hemostatic balance during ALA treatment to suppress the excessive use additional anticoagulation. To accomplish this, the student will developed functional microgels with controlled mechanical properties and specific chemical functions to orthogonally bind the desired bioactive molecules. At the final stage the microgels will be packed in a cartridge to provide self regulated and on demand release of anticoagulants.

The main objectives of the project are (i) synthesis of building blocks for microgel (ii) fabrication of microgels via microfluidics (iii) biofunctionalization of the microgels (iv) investiagtion of stimuli triggered release of therapeutics and anticoagulants. You should be highly motivated and should hold a M.Sc. in chemistry, have good synthetic skills and a background in organic/polymer chemistry. Experience with microfluidic is desirable but not mandatory. Good communication skills and the ability to work in interdisciplinary team are required.